CONTENTS:
TOUR INTRODUCTION
MAP
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
PRICES
GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION
ITINERARY IN DETAIL
ACCOMMODATION
AITO QUALITY CHARTER
NAMIBIA FACTSHEET
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION
Tour Introduction Southern Namibia boasts some of the most starkly breathtaking scenery to be found in Africa. Many of the highlights are on the established tourist track, but this itinerary gives you the opportunity to discover some unknown, relatively unexplored gems. Accompanied at all times by expert guides who bring the landscapes and history to life, you will enjoy a vast range of experiences, travelling in areas that would be difficult to reach and navigate under your own steam. After flying into Windhoek, your first port of call is the timeless Kalahari Desert, where nature drives take you into the harsh wilderness to view desert adapted wildlife and search for meerkats. Then it’s on to the Fish River Canyon, a stunning natural phenomenon and one of the world’s largest canyons. Here you will get to hike in the Canyon itself, staying in comfortable lodge accommodation to ease your muscles after a long day’s walk. The Canyon is the most southerly point on the tour, so you next head north west to take in some of Namibia’s fascinating recent history. Kolmanskop and Elizabeth Bay were diamond mining settlements in the German colonial area of the early to mid 20th century. Now totally abandoned, the well preserved colonial buildings are gradually being swallowed by the desert, making for an eerie, unique atmosphere. Moving on, you can see the penguins and incredible bird life at Halifax Island, where there are also dolphins and whales to be spotted if you are lucky.
Dead Vlei, Sossusvlei, Namibia
The tour moves on with a visit to the huge dunes of Sossusvlei, one of the world’s natural wonders and an essential element of any trip to Southern Namibia. Here, you can explore the dunes with our guide as many times as you like. Finally, you will travel deep into the heart of the rugged Naukluft Mountains for your final day, where you can enjoy hiking, nature drives, horse riding or just some pure relaxation in perfect tranquillity.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Climate The weather in Namibia at this time of year should be mostly warm and dry. However, April is at the end of the rainy season, so you may just catch the tail end of a few showers. This period of rain works magic on the environment, often adding lush patches of luminous green to the browns and oranges of the desert and mountains, so it is a wonderful time to visit if you are looking for jaw dropping vistas. It may get slightly cool in the evenings and early mornings, so it is worth taking a couple of long sleeved tops and some trousers.
Passports & Visas Passports need to be valid for six months from the date you are due to leave the country. However we would recommend a minimum of nine months validity to avoid any problems. You will also need two clear pages on your passport. British citizens do not need visas for travel to Namibia.
Oryx in the Kalahari
Your Audley Specialists This tour has been put together by our team of five Audley Namibia Specialists. Each of them have travelled extensively in Namibia, covering every conceivable area from Fish River Canyon in the south to the Caprivi Strip area leading into Botswana and the Kunene region in the far north west. Their knowledge and love of the country are second to none, and they will be happy to help you out with any queries about this tour or ideas that you may have about potential extensions.
Please feel free to contact the Namibia team on 01993 838 525.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
MAPS OF THE REGION
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
DAY BY DAY SUMMARY OF TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
DAY DATE ITINERARY IN BRIEF ACCOMMODATION ARRANGEMENTS
1 Friday 23 Fly overnight from Heathrow Terminal 5 to April 2010 Johannesburg.
2 Saturday 24 At Johannesburg Airport you will catch a Bagatelle Dune Lodge, Southern April 2010 connecting flight to Windhoek. On arrival at Kalahari Windhoek Airport we your guide and the rest Dune Chalet of the group will be waiting to meet you in All meals are included Arrivals. Then it's time for the first drive, down into the Southern Kalahari, either stopping for lunch along the way or lunching at Bagatelle Dune Lodge (dependent on timings on the day). In the afternoon there will be the chance to enjoy a sundowner drive, taking in the unique flora and fauna of the area.
3 Sunday 25 It’s a longer journey this morning down to Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon April 2010 the Fish River Canyon, a stunning natural Chalet phenomenon. We will stop for breaks and All meals are included refreshments along the way and should have some time to explore in the evening.
4 Monday 26 Today is dedicated to a guided hike in the Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon April 2010 Canyon itself, enjoying the awesome Chalet landscape, hardy wildlife and refreshing All meals are included rock pools to be found along the way. The route can be tailored to suit guests with differing levels of fitness and varying interests. This one day hike has only recently become available from the perfectly located Fish River Lodge, so we’ll be enjoying a new and exciting experience.
5 Tuesday 27 A shorter drive today, following the course Klein Aus Vista, Aus April 2010 of the Orange River and passing through the Desert Horse Inn small mining town of Rosh Pinah. Staying at All meals are included Klein Aus Vista we’ll have the chance to explore this lovely area under our own steam.
6 Wednesday 28 We’ll search for the famous wild horses of The Nest Hotel, Luderitz April 2010 the area during today’s short transfer up to Standard Luderitz. After lunch, any member of the All meals are included group can book an excursion on the schooner "Sedina," which cruises out to Halifax Island to see a large colony of penguins, an array of birdlife, cape fur seal communities and, if we are lucky, dolphins and whales!
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
DAY DATE ITINERARY IN BRIEF ACCOMMODATION ARRANGEMENTS
7 Thursday 29 A fascinating day to explore the eerie ghost The Nest Hotel, Luderitz April 2010 towns of Kolmanskop and Elizabeth Bay. Standard Our guide will show us the old mines, take All meals are included us through deserted buildings being swallowed by the desert and give a fascinating insight into the history of the area. After arriving back in the evening we will enjoy dinner in Luderitz.
8 Friday 30 Today’s excursion is another full day The Nest Hotel, Luderitz April 2010 expedition out to the lesser known ghost Standard towns of Pomona and Bogenfels. We will All meals are included pass through the remote Sperrgebiet area, which is about to experience an influx of visitors when it receives national park status, so this will be a great time to visit and beat the crowds.
9 Saturday 01 One of the longer transfers today but Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei May 2010 certainly an enjoyable one, travelling into Stone Cottage the heart of the Namib and the legendary All meals are included dunes of Sossusvlei. In the evening we will explore the area around Desert Homestead in a nature drive.
10 Sunday 02 A full day to explore the massive dunes of Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei May 2010 Sossusvlei, the other worldly Dead Vlei and Stone Cottage the impressive Sesriem Canyon. All meals are included
11 Monday 03 The drive this morning takes us deep into Corona Guest Farm, Naukluft May 2010 the Naukluft Mountains for a one night stay Mountains at the charming Corona Guest Farm. This is Standard a lovely area in which you can spend your All meals are included last full afternoon in Namibia relaxing, hiking, horse riding or enjoying a nature drive.
12 Tuesday 04 After breakfast we'll be driven over the May 2010 scenic Gamsberg Pass and back to Windhoek, in time for a flight down to Johannesburg. Your final flight is overnight back to Heathrow.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Deserted house at Kolmanskop
PRICES
Southern Namibia Group Tour 2010
Arrangements as specified per person (based on 2 people travelling) £3,695 Single supplement £190 Per person deposit required to confirm these arrangements £555
TOUR HEALTH & FITNESS REQUIREMENTS To ensure that all participants get the most out of the tour, it is important that you are fully aware of the level of activity and fitness and medical health required to successfully complete this itinerary. Please read this dossier carefully prior to confirming your place on the tour, and having established the facts, it is your responsibility to contact us with any concerns regarding individual levels of fitness, health or ability. Please be aware that our tour driver-guides in Namibia have the right to exclude customers from any aspects of the tour if they feel they are not sufficiently fit, healthy or able to complete excursions without affecting its safety, comfort or smooth progress. If you would like to discuss any of these issues further please call our Namibia specialists on 01993 838 525 to discuss in more detail.
ACTIVITY LEVEL – MODERATE A reasonable-good level of fitness is required for this trip and you should be physically active. You should be aware and prepared for all or any of the following on this trip:
• Long road journeys on rough and often bumpy roads, in shared 4x4 vehicles (typically a Toyota Landcruiser or similar) for up to 7 hours per day (and potentially more dependent on local conditions and the quality of the roads). • To carry your own luggage through airports and from the vehicles to hotels and vice versa. • To spend the majority of one day hiking in the Fish River Canyon. This will not be an intense or challenging hike, but there will be areas where you’ll need to pass over areas that are rocky or fairly steep. After an early breakfast at camp you will stop a number of times for refreshments, to enjoy the surroundings and to shelter from the sun. Picnic lunches will be provided and your guide will do everything to ensure that your experience on the hike is suited to your specific interests and fitness levels. • To join walking excursions where applicable in the itinerary. (All of these are optional). • In exploring Sossusvlei, you will get the chance to try climbing some of the dunes. This again is completely optional and does require a good level of fitness, especially if you choose to tackle the imposing “Big Daddy.”
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
HOW TO BOOK If you are happy with the arrangements outlined within this itinerary and would like to book, please contact one of the Namibia specialists on 01993 838 525 – we will also require you to forward your completed booking form and the deposit specified above. Please make cheques payable to Audley Travel.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE • International flights as specified in the itinerary, starting and ending in London Gatwick, based on flying Economy Class, including the associated airport taxes. • National park fees and conservation area fees. • All overland transportation in specially modified 4x4 safari vehicles with English-speaking driver-guides throughout. • Twin-share accommodation as specified. • All meals plus on board soft drinks and snacks while travelling. • Passenger liability insurance. • Some guided activities, as specified in the itinerary.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, etc. • Tips for your driver-guide (discretionary). • Travel Insurance. • Other optional activities which you may choose to take part in during your free time, for example hot air balloon flights or horse riding in Sossusvlei.
TRAVEL INSURANCE We believe that safety and enjoyment are equally important when travelling. It is therefore strongly recommended that you have adequate travel insurance in place before you travel; cover should include emergency medical expenses, personal accident and repatriation. In addition, we strongly recommend that you include baggage, personal liability and cancellation cover.
Audley has partnered with Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited to offer you a range of excellent policies. This is a change to the information provided in the Important Information leaflet which accompanies the printed copy of your itinerary or can be found within your online itinerary.
The Endsleigh policy includes: • Emergency medical expenses • Personal accident • Repatriation • Baggage • Personal liability • Overseas legal expenses • Cancellation or curtailment charges
This policy will also cover over 80 sports and activities standard and you can add cover for more adventurous activities such as white water rafting up to grade 4, trekking up to 6,000m and scuba diving up to 40m to name a few.
This is only a summary of the cover provided. The policy document can be read in full on Endsleigh’s website, which can be accessed by following the link at the bottom of the page.
It is advisable to take out your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip as cover will commence for pre- departure cancellation from the policy issue date. This will, therefore, provide cover should you have to cancel your trip for an insured reason such as illness or serious accident preventing you from travelling.
To access the Travel Insurance website please follow this link www.endsleigh.co.uk/AudleyTravel or alternatively call the dedicated team on 0800 328 5366 and quote "Audley Travel".
PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD Please note, we do not charge a credit card fee on deposits, however, a credit card fee is charged on the balance of the price of your current trip or if full payment is made. Credit card fees are detailed within the enclosed information booklet. Please note we charge a credit card fee due to the high fees charged to tour operators by the credit card companies. We have chosen to make this transparent rather than including it within the trip price. You may therefore wish to pay the balance by bank transfer, debit card or personal cheque.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Tour Information
GROUP SIZE The group size for this tour is a maximum of sixteen people, to ensure a more personal experience and that you will not experience overcrowding. Each vehicle takes a maximum of eight passengers, so should this amount be exceeded there will be two separate vehicles for the tour. There is a minimum requirement of four passengers to run this tour, so the first three people who book will be done so on a provisional basis until the group size is four or more. Deposits paid for those first three people will be fully refundable should the tour not operate.
SINGLE TRAVELLERS Single travellers are welcome on our group tours. You have two options – you can choose to share a room with another single traveller on the tour and pay the standard tour price, or you can choose to guarantee the sole occupancy of your room, in which case a single supplement is payable.
TOUR GUIDES You will be accompanied at all times by at least one experienced and knowledgeable guide, who speaks excellent English and will travel with you at all times. They are carefully selected for their experience, maturity and understanding of the regions you will be visiting on your tour note there is not a tour leader accompanying this group from the UK – your driver-guides will be leading the group as well as being your point of contact on the ground in Namibia.
FINANCIAL SECURITY We are fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) who have issued us with an Air Tour Operator’s License (ATOL) which means that your money is 100% safe when you book. Our ATOL bonding protects all your arrangements beginning with your flight from the UK. If your arrangements do not begin in the UK or are accommodation and/or ground arrangements only i.e. no international flights then you are covered by our ABTA membership. More details on both methods of financial protection can be found below. If you would like to discuss financial protection, please call us and we will be happy to explain how either scheme operates.
Air Tour Operator License The air inclusive holidays (where the flight element originates from the UK) in our brochures are ATOL protected, since we hold an Air Travel Operator’s License granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information contact: ATOL, Consumer Protection Group, Civil Aviation Authority, CAA House, 45-59 Kingsway, London WC2B 6TE. Telephone 020 7453 6424. You can also visit their website at www.atol.org.uk
ABTA Membership For all holidays which do not begin in the UK or which are accommodation and/or ground arrangements only. i.e. no international flights have been booked by Audley, your monies are protected as part of out ABTA membership. In the unlikely event of our insolvency this ABTA membership will provide a refund of any monies you have paid to us for an advance booking and/or your repatriation to the place where your holiday arrangements with us commenced.
HEALTH It is essential that you see your GP or a travel clinic before travelling to make sure that you have taken all the necessary health precautions. Some vaccinations require more than one visit with a period of weeks between injections. You should visit your GP at least six weeks before departure. For up to date medical advice you may wish to call the Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad (MASTA).
MASTA Traveller’s Health Line Before travelling abroad, you can telephone 0906 550 1402 (premium rate call 60p/minute) to obtain a ‘Health Brief’ specifically tailored to your journey. Your brief will give information about immunisation and malaria as well as any Foreign Office advice and the latest health news. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. MASTA, 52 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SQ. Internet: www.masta.org.
TRAVEL ADVICE The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice Unit monitors all overseas destinations and offers safety advice to British travellers. You can contact the service on 0870 6060 290. Internet: www.fco.gov.uk/travel.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
THE MARA RIANDA CHARITABLE TRUST
AUDLEY TRAVEL AND RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL Audley Travel’s Responsible Travel policy has recently seen a significant change; whilst the company as a whole has been supporting carbon reduction projects through Friends of Conservation since 2005, each individual department has now also been given the opportunity to support a charity of their choice with a yearly financial donation. Here in the Africa Safari Department we have researched many different charities and, after much discussion, have elected to support The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust.
THE MARA RIANDA CHARITABLE TRUST Our close friend and former colleague Ariana Grammaticas left Audley in 2007 to return to her home country of Kenya. In early 2008 she wrote to us about The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust. Set up by Richard Long, who visited Kenya in 2004, it supports the school and community in the wider Mara area. All the money Richard raises is used to provide this support, and he covers administration costs himself. So far the Trust has installed a borehole to supply fresh water, built five new classrooms, provided bursaries to secondary school for exceptional students and paid the salary for one teacher. Though much has been achieved, there is always much more that can be done!
©Richard Long
AUDLEY AND THE MARA RIANDA CHARITABLE TRUST IN THE FUTURE On Richard’s most recent trip to Kenya, he visited Aitong School, another school in the Mara area. It has no running water and children here collect water from a muddy spring. Richard’s aim is to continue the success he has had at Rianda School, and bring clean drinking water to the children of Aitong. There is an untapped spring in the school grounds and he is raising funds to divert the water into clean tanks. From here he hopes to install a pump and piping to provide safe drinking water around the school for the children. The Africa Safari team has made a donation to this excellent cause, and we look forwards to visiting on our next trip to the Mara!
If you would like further information please speak to your Africa Country Specialist on 01993 838 500. Alternatively, if you are going to Kenya and staying at any of the Governor’s Camps in the Masai Mara, do ask the staff to take you to visit!
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Springbok fighting in the Kalahari
YOUR ITINERARY IN DETAIL
Friday, 23 LONDON TERMINAL: 5 TO JOHANNESBURG April 2010 British Airways flight - Flt No: TBC - Dep: - Arr: - (next day) Economy class; Non-stop flight;
Saturday, 24 JOHANNESBURG TO WINDHOEK April 2010 British Airways flight - Flt No: TBC - Dep: - Arr: - TBC Economy class; Non-stop flight;
NAMIBIA INTRODUCTION Namibia is a country of vast blue skies and endless horizons. It contains one of the world's oldest deserts, its highest dunes and second largest canyon. In the north of the country Etosha's silvery pan and surrounding plains teem with game. Damaraland's desert-adapted elephant and endangered black rhino roam freely and can be tracked on foot and open 4WD's. Flying along the Skeleton Coast you'll find roaring dunes, hundred-thousand strong seal colonies and flocks of pelicans and flamingos. And then finally in the south, perhaps the most spectacular scenery is found. Climbing a dune at Sossuslvei to watch the sunrise it's easy to see why Namibia is a photographer's dream. The dunes are enchanting, totally unspoilt, and best of all you have them all to yourself.
Windhoek Introduction Windhoek is located at an altitude of 1,646 metres in the country's Central Highlands. The Auas Mountains lie to the southeast, Eros Mountains to the northeast and the hills of the Khomas Hochland to the west. Lying more or less in the geographical centre of the country, the city and surrounding suburbs are spread out over a series of picturesque valleys. Although small for a capital city by international standards, Windhoek remains the political, economic and cultural centre of the country. Windhoek is certainly a place worth spending a day or two looking around before setting off for the rest of the country. The wide streets are lined with cosmopolitan pavement cafes. Look up and you'll see old German architecture in soft colours sitting alongside glittering office blocks. Street vendors cluster under palm trees with arrays of wooden curios, shops have colourful displays of African art, twinkling Namibian diamonds and books on every aspect of the country from the Himba of the Kaokoveld to the ghost towns of Luderitz. People are busy, but relaxed and stress seems an unusual concept here. The traffic is minimal, air is clear and skies seem to be permanently blue.
MEET AND GREET AT THE AIRPORT You will be met at the airport on arrival.
WINDHOEK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO BAGATELLE - AUDLEY GROUP TOUR group transfer with driver-guide After meeting up with your guides and group at the airport, you will be driven south into the Kalahari. Your guide will stop on the journey so that you can take photographs, watch wildlife and have snacks and cold drinks. The journey is likely to take around three hours, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the stunning landscapes.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Southern Namibia Introduction Southern Namibia is wild, beautiful and so quiet that the only sound is the wind. It has expanses of desert, endless yellow plains, low vegetated dunes and impressive mountain ranges. Climbing a dune at Sossuslvei to watch the sunrise it’s easy to see why Namibia is a photographer’s dream. The deep south of Namibia is an area that is often ignored by travellers but with attractions such as the Fish River Canyon, the wild horses at Aus and deserted diamond mines at Luderitz, it is certainly worth a visit.
Southern Kalahari Introduction Southern Namibia is wild, beautiful and so quiet the only sound is the wind. It has expanses of desert, endless yellow plains, low vegetated dunes and impressive mountain ranges. There are small farms dotted around this wilderness, tiny homesteads with tin windmills and clusters of prickly pear trees in the gardens. It's a wonderful area to explore as the roads are deserted and you have the beauty all to yourself. Driving along you are likely to meet ostrich on the road and men in felt hats driving donkey carts. There is always an acacia tree with enormous weaver bird nest to stop the car beside and picnic under. Pale chanting goshawks sit on every telegraph pole, in the early morning you may see bat eared fox or gemsbok, and stopping in the tiny outpost towns you encounter old fashioned shops where you're served from behind a counter by warm, welcoming and sometimes slightly eccentric people! It's an area little visited by many tourists, but time in the south cannot fail to impress.
Black backed jackals in the Kalahari
SUNDOWNER DRIVE FROM BAGATELLE DUNE LODGE shared excursion with an English speaking guide This afternoon you can go out on a guided sundowner drive, taking in the dramatic scenery and stopping to learn about the desert-adapted flora and fauna you come across on the way. There are meerkat colonies in this area and a cheetah rehabilitation project nearby, so there is plenty of interest in addition to the stark beauty of the desert. You'll stop at the top of a red Kalahari sand dune to enjoy the sunset with a cool drink - a lovely way to end your day in the Southern Kalahari.
Bagatelle Dune Lodge, Southern Kalahari All meals are included
Sunday, 25 BAGATELLE TO FISH RIVER CANYON April 2010 group transfer with driver-guide This morning your guide will drive you from the dunes of the Kalahari to the breathtaking Fish River Canyon. The drive will take between five and six hours, giving you time to take in a range of habitats from flat open plains to large mountains.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Fish River Canyon Introduction In the far south of the country the Fish River Canyon, second only to the Grand Canyon, is spectacular. At its base, the Fish River twists and turns, its clear water tumbling over rocks. We recommend taking an early morning ramble along the canyon, you will hear the bark of baboons echoing around the rocks and often see a klipspringer darting up a gulley. At the top the view point is breathtaking. There are no shops or kiosks here, just a bench in the shade. On a busy day there might be one other person visiting it, thus the chances of finding a rock to sit on and having the view to yourself is high.
Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon All meals are included Monday, 26 DAY HIKE IN THE CANYON FROM FISH RIVER LODGE April 2010 guided hike This spectacular hike begins with a journey down into the Fish River Canyon from the lodge, either by vehicle or on special guided walks for those that would rather walk down. Guests do need to be quite fit to walk down as it takes around three to four hours to reach the bottom, with steep gradients in places that involve a bit of climbing and clambering. Once you are at the bottom you walk along sandy areas, rocky outcrops and vegetated drainage courses to reach the picnic spot, which is next to a large permanent rock pool where you can swim anytime of the year - a delightful, relaxing experience. Whether guests walk down or go by vehicle, the last 100m to the rock pool and picnic site can only be accessed on foot as the vehicle parks above the dip where the rock pool and picnic site sit. The drive down into the canyon also takes about three hours as it is not a direct route down (whereas the walking trail is a lot more direct). Everybody must return to the lodge by vehicle rather than on foot (with the exception of extremely fit people who are really keen and if it is not too hot to do so).
Fish River Canyon, Namibia
Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon All meals are included
Tuesday, 27 FISH RIVER CANYON TO AUS - GROUP TOUR April 2010 group transfer In the morning you head south to drive along the Orange River, which forms Namibia's southern border with South Africa. You will enjoy a variety of photogenic vistas on this route, with the river at different times framed by rugged mountain ranges and open dune fields. After passing through the frontier town of Sendelingsdrift, you will stop at Rosh Pinah, a fascinating small mining settlement that has been operating since the late 1960s. On arriving at Klein Aus Vista, you can relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings, which are perfect for afternoon and evening walks.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Aus Introduction Aus lies some 120 kilometres east of Lüderitz on the B4 road which connects Luderitz and Keetmanshoop and is one of the most scenic routes in Namibia. It is a funny little desert town (although to call it a town may be somewhat ambitious) tucked into folds in the hills. It has a wild west quality but it would be fair to say that nothing much ever really happens here! The railway in effect stops here because even though the line continues on to the coastal town of Luderitz, sand blown onto the tracks makes it unsafe to use. Aus is most famous for its wild horses which roam freely in and out of the restricted diamond zone and can often be seen in the area. Nobody knows exactly where the wild horses originated from, but they are supposedly descendents of those from the German Schutztruppe. Another theory proposes their origins to lie in the former stud of Baron Hansheinrich von Wolf of the Farm Duwisib south of Maltahöhe. In any case, the wonderful animals before the backdrop of the Namib Desert is a sight worth seeing. The horses are most often seen at the Garub waterhole which is 20 kilometres west of Aus and where a roofed observation stand has been put up by conservationists. Garub was once a station on the railway line from Aus to Luderitz, completed in 1906. Because there was no drinking water in Luderitz, the water was transported in barrels by train from Garub to the coast, a journey of 120 kilometres. Luderitz later received its own waterpipe and in 1990 the station Garub was closed. The little station house is still standing and can be visited.
Klein Aus Vista, Aus All meals are included Wednesday, 28 AUS TO LUDERITZ - GROUP TOUR April 2010 group transfer This morning you set off west towards the coast. On the way to Luderitz you will look for the famous wild horses that are resident in the area and have become adapted to the extreme desert conditions. Research suggests that the horses' forebears were part of a South African cavalry unit that set up camp in the area but fled into the desert during World War I. At the Garub waterhole a roofed observation stand has been put up by conservationists, from where you can closely view these extraordinary animals. The overall journey from Aus to Luderitz isn't far, taking just over an hour if you were not stopping along the way.
The wild horses at Aus
Luderitz Introduction Luderitz is a small outpost, a faded picturesque German colonial town lying between the inhospitable dunes of the Namib Desert on one side and the vast icy Atlantic Ocean on the other. It is a very sleepy town with laid back locals who often have the time to talk. Around the centre of town pastel coloured houses have a few people wandering in and out of them, dogs meander down the streets and the only thing to disturb the peace is a siren sounded at noon during the week, to remind the residents of the time! (The same sounded intermittently means there's a fire somewhere). Luderitz is a fascinating town to visit. The beaches south of the town are a delight for a mornings walk. You'll see flamingos wading in the surf, shells, whale and seal bones on the sand but not another soul on the beach. It's possible to arrange a boat trip to Halifax Island to see the penguins, a trip to Kolmanskop to see the remains of the ghost town or deep into the forbidden Sperrgebeit Zone to see the Idatel Valley where diamonds were collected by moonlight. Stay for a few days to explore - its well worthwhile.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Luderitz, Namibia
HALF DAY BOAT TRIP ON THE SEDINA shared excursion with an English speaking guide If you decide to book the Sedina excursion you will be met at your hotel and escorted to the port, where you board the schooner "Sedina." After putting out into the Atlantic, you'll pass the old whaling station at Stormvogel Bucht, continuing on into Shearwater and Guano Bays. The guides will search for whales and endemic Heaviside dolphins, before carrying on to Halifax Island. This is Namibia's third biggest penguin breeding site, and other seabirds you'll find on the island include crowned cormorants, turnstones, kelp gulls and swift terns. On the way back there are lovely views of the lighthouse at Diaz Point, Diaz Cross and a colony of Cape Fur Seals. The trip takes approximately two and a half hours in total.
The Nest Hotel, Luderitz All meals are included
Thursday, 29 KOLMANSKOP-ELIZABETH BAY TOUR April 2010 shared excursion with an English speaking guide You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning for an excursion to the atmospheric former mining towns of Kolmanskop and Elizabeth Bay. These ghost towns are now eerily abandoned, creating some fantastic photo opportunities and a unique, other worldly feel. The first leg is the drive out to Kolmanskop and after looking round the old town which is being gradually swallowed up by the desert, you'll enter the diamond area via a security checkpoint. After this you'll enjoy some refreshments before proceeding onto Elizabeth Bay. The old town is a wonderful place to soak up the history of the area, with its eroded and broken down colonial houses, where there will be the chance to explore and take photographs. You'll be escorted around the workers' quarters and then around the rest of the town. From here you'll make your way back to Luderitz for dinner and an evening at leisure.
The ghost town at Kolmanskop
The Nest Hotel, Luderitz All meals are included GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Friday, 30 DAY TRIP TO POMONA & BOGENFELS April 2010 shared excursion with driver-guide Visiting Pomona and Bogenfels involves a full day safari into the Sperrgebiet, a strikingly remote diamond mining area that is soon to become Namibia’s largest National Park. The journey goes as far south as the stunning natural rock formations of Bogenfels, with the imposing 55m high rock arch as a centrepiece. As you pass unexplored areas such as Grass Platz, Rotkopf and Grillental, the tour provides a potted history of this little known area and some great spots to stop for photographs. Past Swartberg and on route towards Pomona, you will pass numerous view points and several old, abandoned mining buildings. At approximately midday the tour reaches Pomona, where guests may walk around and view the ghost mining town before lunch is served in the old school building. Next the tour departs towards the legendary Bogenfels, passing through Fairytale valley and an old diamond field. You will arrive at Bogenfels in the mid-late afternoon, which is a great time to view and photograph the impressive arch and its surroundings, before heading back to your base at Luderitz.
The Nest Hotel, Luderitz All meals are included
Saturday, 01 LUDERITZ TO SOSSUSVLEI May 2010 group transfer Today's drive takes you into the heart of the Namib Desert, travelling inland and then north past the Namibrand Nature Reserve to the legendary dunes of Sossusvlei. With a number of places to stop and enjoy some superb scenery, and an increasing amount of wildlife as you go, this journey could take up to five hours but will be enjoyable throughout.
Sossusvlei Introduction In southern Namibia at Sesriem, the Tsauchab River has carved a wide path into the dunes towards the coast. The river never reaches the sea as it is blocked by mountains of sand. It spreads into pans, surrounded by curving dunes. This area is known as Sossusvlei with towering dunes that are apricot at sunrise and crimson at sunset. Near Sossusvlei are other 'vleis' (valleys or pans) - Dead Vlei with a silver floor and skeletal trees and Hidden Vlei with dusty acacias. It's superb for photography and a place of spectacular beauty. Many think deserts are lifeless, however its worth walking through the dunes and you will soon realise this is not so. The tracks of tok tokkie beetles criss-cross the sand, shovel- snouted lizards dart into nara bushes and you may even see a wildcat in the distance. We recommend arriving at Sossusvlei as soon as the gates open to climb one of the hundreds of dunes whilst the sun rises.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei All meals are included
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Sunday, 02 EXPLORING THE DUNES OF SOSSUSVLEI - GROUP TOUR May 2010 shared excursion with driver-guide Today will be dedicated to visiting the biggest dunes in the Namib Desert, which are often cited as the largest in the world. You will set off very early to enjoy the alluring sight of the sun rising over the dunes and also take advantage of the cooler conditions early in the morning, which are perfect for exploring. The contrast between the sand and the clear blue sky is startling and the meandering dunes are beautiful. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the dunes and visit Dead Vlei, or if you are full of energy you can climb to the top of one of the dunes and take in the awe inspiring, 360 degree vistas of the Namib. Dune 45 is loads of fun and not too high to climb, while 'Big Daddy' is the ultimate if you want superb views great photos and some hard exercise! After enjoying some refreshments, Sesriem Canyon is also an interesting place to explore. There are small pools within the canyon at certain times of the year which are perfect for cooling off after a hot and active day. With an experienced guide to show you the best spots for views and photographs, while filling you in on the history and sparse, desert adapted wildlife in the area, this will be a comprehensive introduction to Sossusvlei.
Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei All meals are included
Monday, 03 SESRIEM AREA TO NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS - GROUP TOUR May 2010 group transfer After breakfast your guide will drive you from Sesriem to the Naukluft Mountains. You will stop along the way so that you can take photographs, watch wildlife and have snacks and cold drinks. The journey is likely to take around two to three hours, depending on how often you stop. Your guide will discuss all of the options with you, but you should arrive at Corona in time for lunch.
Naukluft Mountains Introduction The Naukluft Mountains are about an hour's drive to the northeast of Sesriem and Sossusvlei and make an ideal stop either on the way to or from the dunes. Its superb walking country with rocky outcrops, deep river valleys with wild olive trees, and sycamore figs and freshwater springs where you can swim when the weather is hot (they can be icy cold!). There are lots of wild animals including baboon, steenbok, kudu, Hartmann's mountain zebra and klipspringer. Leopard are present but rarely seen. Over 200 bird species have been recorded and the Naukluft is the southern most limit of many species of the northern Namib, including Ruppell's parrot and the pretty rosy-faced lovebirds. The air is crystal clear, you'll not meet another person all day and sunsets over the mountains are spectacular.
The Naukluft Mountains
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
IDEAS FOR ACTIVITIES FROM CORONA recommendations for your free time - not included There are a number of activities that can be done from Corona. These include swimming, horse riding and visiting the nearby Bushman drawings. The scenic game drives are also hugely enjoyable. Not only is the lodge located in a stunning part of the Naukluft Mountains close to the Gamsberg Pass but there is also a large amount of game including kudu, oryx, and the rare mountain zebra, Equally you could just relax and enjoy the lovely setting and the sumptuous food.
Oryx seen on game-drive from Corona Guest Farm
Corona Guest Farm, Naukluft Mountains All meals are included Tuesday, 04 SOSSUSVLEI TO WINDHOEK - GROUP TOUR May 2010 group transfer After breakfast it's time for your final drive, north to Windhoek, passing some rugged mountainous scenery on route. With a stop for lunch along the way, this drive should take around five hours, arriving in plenty of time for your flight home.
WINDHOEK TO LONDON GATWICK TERMINAL: N Air Namibia flight - Flt No: TBC - Dep: - Arr: - (next day) Economy class; Non-stop flight;
IMPORTANT NOTES • Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change. • Transfer times are approximate and subject to local conditions at the time of travel. • All flight times are local.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010 WHY TRAVEL WITH US? PERSONAL SERVICE EXPERIENCE & ACCURACY We are committed to offering you a very personal From the moment you contact us, we are here to service, with all your arrangements being handled by answer any questions about the specific arrangements one country specialist. They will remain your one or more general queries you may have about the point of contact and will take responsibility for the region. We have spent many years leading group tours, smooth operation of your trip. They are supported by a researching new trips and travelling privately. The professional administration and management team. benefit of this experience is yours throughout. When we do not know the answer to a question we will REPUTATION & QUALITY endeavour to find out and get back to you as soon as possible. Well over 80% of our clients have travelled with us in the past or have had Audley recommended to them. Repeat business and recommendations are an essential part of HONESTY our business. When you book with us you are assured of The travel industry generally has a bad reputation quality arrangements if only for the fact that we simply when it comes to the provision of accurate and clear cannot afford to risk our excellent reputation. advice. Our specialisation and extensive on the ground
experience means that advice given to you over the telephone and in our pre-departure literature is as up- to-date, accurate and relevant as it can be.
DETAILED ITINERARIES
We work hard to prevent problems occurring in ECOGNITION R destinations that may be very difficult to deal with and We are Wanderlust magazine’s 2008 Best Tour make a point of highlighting any irritations you could Operator, as voted for by their readers, and have been experience en-route such as flight delays. Our ranked in their Top 10 Tour Operators for the last five itineraries are designed to be comprehensive and clear years. Audley have also been the winner and runner-up whilst the level of detail within this itinerary is for the last two years in the Guardian and Observer’s intended to allow you to make an informed choice Travel Awards Best Tour Operator category – most about the journey and to have a clear understanding of recently achieving a 99.28/100 score. We hold AITO’s what is and is not included in the price. Three Stars rating in recognition of our responsible travel policies, and are listed in the Sunday Times’ 100 MISHAPS EN-ROUTE Best Small Companies To Work For. If a problem does occur while you are travelling you can contact us on our 24 hour number. We will do OMPREHENSIVE ERVICE C S everything in our power to rectify the problem In the vast majority of cases we handle all our clients’ immediately rather than allow it to spoil your trip. arrangements. Your visas will be processed well in advance of travel and air tickets are typically issued 2- LEGAL LIABILITY 3 weeks before travel. We are used to dealing with problems from minor flight time alterations to more We are a UK company and hence must fully comply fundamental changes. When problems occur we will with UK law. When booking with us you can rest rapidly rearrange your itinerary to make best use of assured that your arrangements are carefully planned your time given the changed circumstances, not simply as we have a reputation to maintain and are legally cancel part of your trip or leave you sitting in an liable for any omissions or negligent acts. airport waiting for hours for a rescheduled flight. Importantly, in these situations we will do everything RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL possible to minimise any extra costs involved – in the As an extension of the passion we have for vast majority of cases no extra charges will be made. the countries we specialise in, we have a
firm commitment to the principles of QUALITY LOCAL REPRESENTATION Responsible Travel. We have been awarded AITO We take a good deal of care when choosing our local Responsible Travel 3 star status (the highest agents, taking into account their quality of service and achievable) and continue to work with AITO and a wide vehicles. We have built up many longstanding variety of other bodies to improve our policy. We try to relationships with these agents, ensuring that they include a wide range of RT initiatives in our itineraries, deliver the level of service demanded by Audley from homestays and craft shops to locally owned clients. Our local guides and drivers, where hotels and eco-lodges, to ensure the sustainability of appropriate, are the people you will meet. In many tourism in the destinations we operate in. For more cases we know them personally, in all cases we ensure details, please refer to our website, where you will find that they are of the highest calibre. They are there to details of our RT policy and also our Travellers’ Code. do much more than show you specific sights and If you are particularly interested in these issues and provide factual information. They will be able to tell wish to incorporate them into your itinerary, please do you about local life, culture, cuisines and customs; not hesitate to contact your country specialist: and, where applicable, act as translator. In certain [email protected] parts of the world a specialist guide is more appropriate, for example, a wildlife expert.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION
Your accommodation is described below. Please do not hesitate to call us if you require any further information about any of the properties. Upgraded (or simpler) options and rooms are available in many places, particularly in the main towns and cities.
OUR ACCOMMODATION GRADING SYSTEM
Basic: Very primitive accommodation where we are not aware of anything better. Simple: Clean and simple but limited facilities. Medium: A good standard of accommodation, reasonable range of facilities. First Class: A high standard of accommodation with a wide range of facilities. Deluxe: Superb accommodation with facilities and service to match. Opulent: The world’s most unashamedly luxurious hotels and resorts.
The above classifications are for your guidance only; they are the opinions of our staff and are quite subjective.
BAGATELLE DUNE LODGE, SOUTHERN KALAHARI Medium Bagatelle Dune Lodge lies on the edge of the Southern Kalahari in the mixed tree and shrub Savanna. This tranquil lodge is based on a ranch characterised by huge red sands dunes running in parallel lines in a northern-westerly to south-easterly direction. Located just a 2½-hour drive from Windhoek it makes for an ideal stop-over en route to the Naukluft Park or south to the Fish River area. The accommodation is in 10 rooms, four of which are "dune chalets" balanced on top of a Kalahari sand ridge. The game lodge's main area is decorated in rich warm and earthy tones and has a well stocked curio shop, Bagatelle Dune Lodge, Southern Namibia comfortable reading lounge and library. There is also a swimming pool with loungers and hammock, a good place to relax in the hot afternoons and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Nature drives during the early morning and late afternoon will enable you to view desert-adapted animal and bird life and the unique dune topography and vegetation. In the evenings traditional sundowners on a red Kalahari sand dune are the perfect way to watch the sun sink away into the distant dunes.
Bagatelle Dune Lodge, Southern Kalahari
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
FISH RIVER LODGE, FISH RIVER CANYON Medium Fish River Lodge is a brand new accommodation that promises to offer the best location to explore one of the world's largest canyons. There are twenty comfortable, modern chalets based in a privately owned reserve of around 45,00 hectares, including a stunning 80km stretch along the canyon rim. Fish River Canyon is 27-km wide at its broadest point, and home to a number of natural pools, a wide variety of game and incredibly beautiful picnic spots, which only now have been discovered and are easily reachable for gusts. The lodge has superb views into the canyon and is the only one in the area that offers day hiking trips in the Canyon itself.
Fish River Lodge, Fish River Canyon
KLEIN AUS VISTA, AUS Medium An hour outside Luderitz the little Klein Aus Vista guesthouse has a wonderful location. Small rock chalets are tucked away amongst granite boulders with views of the desert. As well as trips to Luderitz, guests can explore the gentle hiking trails, climb the extinct volcanic mountain or search for the wild Namib feral horses, present in this area for seven generations. With welcoming hosts and plentiful food, it's a tranquil and comfortable place to stay.
Our opinion: The Klein Aus Vista is a superb little place. The day trips are excellently guided and atmosphere in the lodge unpretentious and friendly. At Aus, about 125 kilometres from Luderitz, you will Klein Aus Vista - Eagles Nest find the Aus Community and Conservation Trust. Klein Aus Vista is busy setting up an information centre where you will find illustration and explanations on numerous boards that explains the unique fauna and flora of the succulent Karoo. After reading up on some interesting facts, you may wish to visit the souvenir shop or relax with a cup of tea or a light meal in the cafe and restaurant.
Klein Aus Vista - Eagles Nest
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
THE NEST HOTEL, LUDERITZ Medium The Nest hotel is built on a rocky outcrop on the fringes of Luderitz. There are 73 rooms, all of which have balconies and sea views. The rooms are international in style with double or twin beds, TV, air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. There is a large bar and dining room and the hotel has a good reputation for its food.
Our opinion: The Nest Hotel has a great location with lovely sea views.
The Nest Hotel, Luderitz
DESERT HOMESTEAD, SOSSUSVLEI Medium The Desert Homestead is set in a wide grassy valley, sheltered by the Nubib, Tsaris and Naukluft mountains. The lodge is owned and managed by Andrew and Melissa who have a long history of managing lodges in Namibia with care, warmth and incredible style. The Desert Homestead has 20 thatched, en-suite chalets, all prettily decorated in pale linens and dark wood furniture. There are double or twin beds and en-suite bathrooms. Each room has its own verandah under a latte canopy with Northern views extending to the Rotterkaum Mountains. The lights and fans in the rooms are powered by a bank of batteries, which are charged by wind and solar power during daytime. Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei All the guest amenities (soaps, shampoo, body lotion etc.) are environmentally friendly. The main lodge has an open plan living room with comfortable leather sofas and soft African fabrics. There is a large and sheltered verandah where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner, candle-lit even on windy days. The food is excellent farm style cuisine with fresh vegetables from the desert gardens. The swimming pool in front of the main building is good for a refreshing dip and popular throughout the year. There are many activities available from the Desert Homestead. Horse-riding is extremely popular with sunrise and sunset rides as well as the option to sleep out in the desert under the stars. Sundowner drives in evenings are a delight with stops on mountain tops to enjoy gin & tonics, beers and snacks. Sesriem and the gate to Sossusvlei is about Desert Homestead, Sossusvlei forty minutes drive away so the lodge is well located for exploring the dunes.
Our opinion: Andrew and Melissa are friendly and relaxed and you feel instantly at home at Desert Homestead. It's a great little place and we warmly recommend it.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
CORONA GUEST FARM, NAUKLUFT MOUNTAINS Medium Corona Guest Farm is virtually half way between Walvis Bay and Windhoek just off the C26. Driving in you will pass a number of dried up river beds and are likely to see kudu and springbok. The farm is situated in something of a bowl surrounded by a number of mountains one of which contains the impressive Gamsberg Pass. Accommodation consists of four deluxe (family-sized) suites and six twin/double rooms, each of them boasting its own private and individually decorated bathroom or shower. Recently they have also built four safari style tents with ensuite bathrooms. Apart from relaxing by the swimming pool or under Corona Guest Farm, Naukluft Mountains the jacaranda trees there are a number of optional activities. These include self guided walks, one of which visits some interesting Bushmen paintings. Horse riding is also available as well as morning and afternoon game drives.
Our opinion: This is a lovely place to break your journey. A farm where service comes very much to the fore and the food is simply delicious.
Corona Guest Farm, Naukluft Mountains
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
NAMIBIA TRAVEL FACT SHEET Introduction Luggage Restrictions Public Holidays & This fact sheet has been produced with the aim Some serious issues must be noted for fly-in of providing you with an introduction to the safaris: Luggage is restricted to 12kg maximum Festivals wonderful country of Namibia. The per person for fly-in safaris. Only soft bags will During Namibia's public holidays the towns information will equip you with some basic be accepted. Hard cases simply do not fit into shut down, although the national parks and facts about the country, culture and the light aircraft. These luggage restrictions camps continue as normal. Public holidays in practicalities associated with a visit to Namibia. seem like very little but bear in mind that most Namibia are as follows: New Years Day, However, it is not supposed to be a safari camps provide simple toiletries and have Independence Day (March 21), Good Friday & comprehensive guide and we do recommend excellent laundry facilities. Easter Monday, Labour Day (May 1), Cassinga that you speak with your consultant with any Day (May 4), Ascension Day (20 May), Africa queries before you book. Day (May 25), Heroes Day (August 26), Goodwill Day (October 7), Human Rights Day Luggage on (December 10), Christmas Day & Boxing Day. Climate Namibia has a sub-tropical desert climate, International Flights characterised by low rainfall and large Please note we would strongly advise against temperature fluctuations between day and putting anything of high value (e.g. cameras, Social Issues night. During the dry season, which runs from jewellery, medication etc) in your checked-in Conservative casual wear is generally April to October, the rainfall is virtually non- baggage as luggage can be tampered with and acceptable everywhere, but revealing clothes existent and the skies are blue. It can be very items removed. In particular this has been an should be avoided. Do not take pictures of chilly at night. In November the rains start to issue in the past for clients transiting through people without asking permission. Photography build but tend not to fall until early December. Johannesburg. is not allowed in airports. Places of historic and Then, through the rainy period there will Lost luggage is also something that can scenic interest may be photographed, but typically be a downpour for around an hour on unfortunately occur so please ensure you keep permission should be sought before some days, before the skies clear again. The your luggage tags with reference numbers so photographing military installations, atmosphere is clear and the desert blooms. that bags can be tracked if necessary. government buildings or other possibly sensitive subjects. Language Communications The official language is English, although The phone code for Namibia is 00 264. Some Wildlife Afrikaans and German are also widely spoken. hotels have telephone but many tented camps Namibia has wild game all over the country. In The main ethnic languages fall into the Bantu have no phone (they are just on the radio). UK the desert areas it is widely dispersed, whilst and Khoisan language groups and there are mobile phones only operate near Windhoek around the permanent water sources such as in many local languages. Most Namibians will and Swakopmund. Etosha and the Caprivi, game concentrations speak several languages. are high. Predators are well represented with lion, spotted hyena, black-backed jackal and Money leopard. Namibia has an estimated 40% of Time The currency of Namibia is the Namibia Africa's cheetah population. Elephant occur in One hour ahead of GMT (April - September) Dollar. This is tied to the South African Rand hundred strong herds in the Caprivi, Kaudom Two hours ahead of GMT (October - March) and 1 ZAR = 1 N$. Both are used freely in and Etosha whilst Damaraland has populations Namibia. It is possible to buy South African of the desert adapted elephant and black rhino. Rand in the UK prior to departure, but not Giraffe, wildebeest, impala, springbok and Electricity Namibian Dollars. Many hotels and lodges gemsbok are common whilst you may need to 220 volts AC, Round three-pin round plugs are accept payment in US dollars as well as search for eland, brown hyena and bat eared in use. Adaptors are readily available in Namibian Dollars and South African Rands. foxes. Namibia has many endemic bird species Windhoek. Note that petrol must always be paid for in cash such as the Ruppell's korhaan, Monteiro's
(N$ or ZAR), this also applies to park fees and hornbill and the dune lark. There are rock Passport Requirements in government lodges. However major shops kestrels and pale chanting goshawks on every and restaurants accept credit cards. Bank cash telegraph pole and giant social-weaver birds' & Visas machines can be found in most major towns. nests are a common sight. The coast sees flocks of greater and lesser flamingos and white Passports need to be valid for 6 months from pelicans. Finally, during the rains the numbers the date you are due to leave Namibia. Tipping swell with an influx of palaearctic and intra- Passports need to be valid for 6 months from Tipping is not compulsory but is African migrants. the date you are due to leave the country. enthusiastically received if you are happy with However we would recommend a minimum of the service and are happy to tip. We 9 months validity to avoid any problems. recommend that you tip your specialist guide at Food and Drink British citizens do not need visas for travel to the end of your stay in camp; as a rough The staple diet for most Namibians is a stiff Namibia. guideline you might want to tip from N$50 per maize porridge known as pap, served with a guest per day. It is also a nice gesture to tip stew. Pap tends to be rather bland, but the general camp / lodge staff. Here we accompanying stews can be quite tasty. Airport Taxes recommend about N$30 per guest per day. This Restaurants tend to serve large, good value, if Both international and domestic departure taxes should be placed in the communal tipping box. fairly simple meals, with menus revolving are prepaid in the UK. If you would like to tip porters we recommend around steak, chicken and schnitzel, plus good, about N$10. Obviously this is very much a fresh seafood by the coast. Meals in guest rough guideline and you are completely free to houses and lodges are always plentiful and give whatever you feel is appropriate. usually excellent. Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas visitors will serve a very international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bushcamps amazes visitors.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010
Health Responsible Tourism Suggested Kit List The standard vaccinations (tetanus, polio, Please take the normal environmentally You do not need to spend thousands on safari typhoid, hepatitis A) are advisable, and malaria friendly steps you should take anywhere in the kit. Instead, we recommend a selection of tablets are required if travelling to certain world, but especially in the developing world. khaki/green coloured lightweight clothing for regions. The Audley team have used a variety Many of the safari lodges and hotels in the day and trousers and jumpers for the of different anti-malarials when travelling and Namibia have very strong environmental evening. You must not wear white for walking we personally have found Malarone to be a policies and do as much as they can towards safaris as it can startle the animals. Note that good option although quite expensive. conserving the local area and contributing from June to August it can be extremely cold at Doxycyclone and Larium are other products to towards the local communities. You can help night, especially in the desert and you will need consider but please enquire with your doctor to preserve resources by complying with the a good fleece. about the side effects. Please note that these local initiatives. If your lodge or hotel has a recommendations are only our opinions so policy for reusing sheets or towels, try to A suggested kit list would be as follows: please check with a GP or Travel Clinic for up- support this as often as you feel you can. T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts to-date advice at least 2 months before travel. Remember to turn off lights and electrical Shorts/skirts/trousers equipment in your room if you are not using Pyjamas - summer and winter for cooler nights We also recommend that you take some them. Please also try to turn off air- Underwear (sports bra recommended for bumpy mosquito spray with you, preferably one that conditioning units when they are not needed or game safaris) contains Deet for extra effectiveness. Our when you leave the room. Try to support Cotton Scarf/bandana specialists here have found both Lifesystems locally produced souvenirs rather than Walking shoes or trainers Expedition 50 and Jungle Formula to work international brands and where possible try to Sandals well. In the evenings try to keep arms and legs eat in locally owned restaurants. By doing Swimming costume covered as much as possible, and to avoid the these small steps you will be helping the local Jersey/fleece use of perfume, hairspray and other scented communities and your money will go directly Sunglasses/sunhat products that might attract mosquitoes. When to them. Suntan lotion SPF20 or higher is recommended buying mosquito spray please bear in mind the If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that following information: In many regions it is considered offensive to you bring a pair of glasses in case your eyes are take someone's photograph without obtaining irritated by the dust. DEET (diethylmetatoluamide) forms the active their permission beforehand. Please try not to Head scarf/bandana - particularly for dusty part in most modern insect repellents and as be offended should they decline, even if you regions such is the most used insect repellent chemical do not understand why. Camera/batteries/film worldwide. When you are buying a mosquito Personal toiletries including blistex for your lips spray you need to look at the back at the You may wish to offset the carbon emissions Malaria tablets (if applicable) ingredients and see what percentage of Deet from your flight with a donation to the Friends Antihistamine tables is your suffer from there is in the spray. We recommend at least of Conservation Carbon Offsetting allergies 15%. programme. Please visit Insect & mosquito repellent e.g. Jungle Juice, Advantages: proven effectiveness at preventing www.audleytravel.com/offset for further Rid and Tabard (only available in Africa) bites, can remain effective for several hours. details. Rehydration salts you are on a walking safari Disadvantages: oily feel, causes irritation to Basic medical kit eyes, lips and other sensitive areas; can cause Please refer to our Travellers Code for more Tissues/"wet one" skin reaction with some users; damages certain general tips and hints on how to travel Animal & bird book/reading books plastics and fabrics; less effective in low responsibly. Torch and batteries concentrations, increased reaction risk in high Binoculars 8x40 or 8x42 are recommended concentrations; strong 'chemical' smell. Visa/tickets/passports/money e.t.c
Natural insect repellents are usually based on the essential oils of either Citronella or specific varieties of Eucalyptus. Modern formulations have improved the effectiveness and reduced the need for frequent re-application helping natural repellents to become popular. The use of micro-encapsulation technology has resulted in some almost odourless repellents. Advantages: none sticky; environmentally friendly; safer on sensitive skins and most can be used on children; reduced irritation; less harmful to plastics and fabrics. Disadvantages: more expensive; may need more frequent re- application to maintain full protection.
GROUP TOUR TO SOUTHERN NAMIBIA APRIL-MAY 2010